CEO Corner: Winter Doesn’t Postpone the Need

The organizers of Winter Walk made the difficult but necessary decision to postpone this year’s event due to unsafe conditions on Boston Common. The new date is Sunday, March 22.

While we respect and support that decision, the harsh weather that forced it is a stark reminder of what so many people experience every single day.

When temperatures plunge and snow piles up, older adults experiencing homelessness do not get a postponement. They endure the cold. They navigate dangerous conditions. They face isolation and health risks that are amplified by winter weather.

That reality is at the heart of why Team Hearth participates in Winter Walk each year.

The need continues to grow. In 2025, Hearth served 633 older adults across our Housing, Outreach, and Prevention programs, an 11% increase over 2024. Prevention services grew by 20%, preventing 143 older adults from homelessness. Housing Search and Stabilization services increased by 13%. Across Outreach and Prevention programs, we saw a 16% rise in unique individuals served.

These are not just numbers. They represent older adults on fixed incomes who are struggling with rising rents, utilities, and medical costs. They represent people who are one unexpected expense away from losing their housing.

We now have more time before March 22 to build momentum for Team Hearth. But the people we serve do not have more time. The first quarter of the year is traditionally the slowest period for charitable giving. At the same time, winter remains one of the most dangerous seasons for individuals without stable housing.

That is why your support right now is so important.

If you are able, I encourage you to join Team Hearth for the rescheduled walk on March 22. Walk alongside us in solidarity with older adults who deserve stability, dignity, and community. If you cannot attend, please consider donating to Team Hearth. Your gift directly funds permanent supportive housing, outreach, and prevention services for older adults in crisis.

Winter may have shifted the date.
But it has not shifted the urgency.

Thank you for standing with Hearth, especially when it matters most.

Warm regards,

Rhonda Pieroni
Chief Executive Officer
Hearth